A New Path to Purpose: Ms. Yates’ Journey to Career Readiness

For Ms. Yates, Career Readiness Coordinator at Carolus Online Academy, the path to education wasn’t traditional – but it was intentional. After years in banking and business leadership, she made a bold decision to follow her passion for people. 

“I went into banking and worked my way up managing multiple branches,” she shared. “But my favorite part was always the people. Helping them find their strengths and succeed. The numbers came naturally after that.” 

At 40, Ms. Yates returned to school to earn her master’s degree in workforce education and development. “Someone told me, ‘If you want to go be a teacher, now’s the time.’ So, I did.” 

Bringing Real-World Experience to Education 

Ms. Yates’ background in business and leadership now plays a central role in how she supports students at COA. Her experience allows her to connect classroom learning with real-world application – something she believes is important and essential. 

“It’s not just about checking boxes,” she explained. “It’s about understanding where each student is and helping them take that next step with confidence.” 

In her role, Ms. Yates is building a detailed career readiness program designed to help students explore their interests, identify their strengths, and prepare for life after graduation. From career pathways and industry certifications to job shadowing and internships, her work touches nearly every aspect of student growth. 

“We’re creating personalized experiences, so every student gets what they need based on where they are and where they want to go.” 

Helping Students Navigate the Unknown 

Among the biggest challenges Ms. Yates sees isn’t a lack of ambition – it’s pressure and the unknown. 

“I had a student tell me, ‘You have to help me figure out my whole life. I’m graduating in six months,’” she recalled. “And I said, ‘I’m 48, and I don’t have my whole life figured out.’” 

For Ms. Yates, moments like that highlight an important truth: students often feel overwhelmed by the idea that they need all the answers right away. 

“They think they have to have it all figured out,” she said. “But it’s really about the journey – learning, adapting, and growing along the way.” 

She works hard to change that mindset by helping students focus on building a plan, taking action, and staying open to change. 

Expanding Possibilities for Every Student 

At the heart of Ms. Yates’ work is a simple but powerful belief: students can’t pursue what they don’t know exists. 

“You can’t be it if you can’t see it,” she said. 

That philosophy drives her efforts to expose students to a wide range of careers and opportunities – many of which they may have never considered. Through guest speakers, career assessments, and hands-on experiences, students begin to see all the possibilities available. 

“I tell them all the time – you don’t have to have it all figured out. Just start somewhere, learn about yourself, and keep moving forward.” 

With her unique background and student-centered approach, Ms. Yates is helping COA students do exactly that – step confidently into their futures, one experience at a time. 

Is Online Learning Right for You? 

At Carolus Online Academy (COA), students experience a tuition-free online education designed for their individual learning needs. Serving K-12^th grade students in South Carolina, COA offers a college and career- focused curriculum, passionate teachers, and a variety of social extracurricular opportunities.  

Since its founding in 2023, COA has empowered students through flexible learning and personalized support. As a K12-powdered school, COA benefits from 25 years of leadership in online education through K12, a Stride, Inc. portfolio brand. Learn more at coa.k12.com. 

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